Are dental implants covered by insurance?

If you’re searching for answers pertaining to dental implants and insurance we have some valuable information. Dentist often times suggest that their patients get a dental implant as an alternative to a denture or bridge. A dental implant is an artificial replacement for a missing natural tooth or root. It offers more comfort and stability than dentures, can restore the ability to chew food and may improve speech and facial appearance.

What is a dental implant?

Implants are manufactured “anchors” that resemble cylinders or screws. Used in upper and lower jaws, they are surgically inserted into the jawbone to become a stable base for artificial replacement teeth.

The implant itself acts as the root of the tooth. The structure placed over the implant will look and perform like the natural tooth that was lost.

How are dental implants different from dentures?

Unlike dentures, implants are not removed for overnight soaking and cleaning, need no adhesives and do not require anchoring to healthy teeth.

How are dental implants placed?

Implant surgery is a three-step process, performed in a dentist’s office:

First, a dentist surgically places an implant directly into the jawbone, positioned like a natural tooth root. The implant will usually remain covered for three to six months to allow bone to develop around the implant to help hold it in place.

Once bone has developed, the dentist uncovers the implant and attaches an extension, called a post. The surrounding gum tissue then needs to heal – a process that typically takes several more months.

Once healing is complete, the implant is ready to serve as a foundation for the new tooth. The dentist makes a crown (or other artificial tooth replacement) and attaches it to the implant post.

The entire process can take five to nine months to complete, depending on the patient’s situation and speed of healing. Dentists typically give specific instructions on how to care for dental implants. It is important that you follow these instructions carefully.

Are dental implants really effective?

The best candidates for implants are those in good general health who have healthy gums and sufficient bone structure. Depending on their location in the mouth, implants are usually between 80 and 95% successful.

Implants may be less successful for people who smoke, grind or clench teeth or have a history of radiation therapy. Patients with diabetes or osteoporosis who have bone loss in the jaw may also be at risk for complications.Check with your dentist to see if implants are the right choice for you.

When implants fail, it is usually because of:

Poor oral hygiene, resulting in infection or impaired healing

Overloading, or too much pressure on the implant structure (this usually happens when you grind your teeth, which can cause the implant to move).

Are dental implants expensive?

Dental Implants are typically more expensive than bridges, but they more closely simulate the appearance and function of natural teeth. Wondering if your plan covers implants and, if so, what they would cost? Most insurance companies do not cover dental implants. You can always call your insurance company and ask about dental implant coverage. For your convenience we have listed some of the most popular dental insurance companies below.